Russian citizens are gripped by fears of potential starvation after the rapid apprehension of Nicolas Maduro, a close associate of Vladimir Putin.
The global community was stunned when Donald Trump orchestrated a highly successful operation that swiftly removed Maduro and his spouse from Venezuela early this morning. The duo is now set to face trial in the United States on various charges, including drug trafficking.
While the Trump administration hailed the operation, apprehension loomed in Russia regarding the implications of losing its strongest ally in South America. The Kremlin condemned Maduro’s ousting, labeling it as “an act of military aggression” and expressing deep unease.
Anxiety has spread beyond the Kremlin, infiltrating online platforms where Russian individuals have expressed concerns about potential oil price plunges that could harm the nation’s economy heavily dependent on energy exports. Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska warned that American control of Venezuelan oil could lead to severe adverse effects.
In a post on his Telegram channel, he remarked, “If our American ‘partners’ gain access to Venezuela’s oil reserves (having already accessed Guyana’s), they will dominate over half of the world’s oil resources.”
He added, “Their intention seems to be to prevent our oil prices from surpassing $50 per barrel. This poses challenges for our state-controlled economy to maintain the status quo.”
A pro-Kremlin commentator was even more critical, denouncing the situation as a “nightmare” and accusing Russia’s leadership of betrayal. “This is a serious situation,” the blogger exclaimed, as reported by the Daily Express.
“It may soon become unprofitable for us to extract oil. In a few months, we could face starvation. This is a catastrophe for our entire economy.
“They will drive oil prices down to rock bottom and monopolize the market. Now, in addition to everything else, they will control oil reserves.
“This is a complete disaster. We will be left without internet, burdened by taxes, clinging to our oil. (…) The Americans have secured their future for centuries to come, while ours may end within a month.”
Trump declared that the US would assume governance of Venezuela “until a safe, proper, and orderly transition can take place.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring the well-being of the Venezuelan people during this transitional period.